The office of the Kansas Region 3 Long-Term Care Ombudsman is seeking additional volunteers to advocate for residents of Johnson County.

Volunteers, who are the heart of the ombudsman program, receive 30 hours of training in elder rights, law, and advocacy, and update training to refine their knowledge.

They work as fact-finders, educators, problem-solvers, and mediators. They are trained to investigate complaints and concerns objectively and to achieve equitable solutions. Ombudsmen are assigned to specific facilities and provide a weekly presence there, bringing watchful and concerned eyes into the long-term care setting. Their presence lets residents know that someone is there for them.

Phylis Toumberlin is the regional ombudsman serving Johnson County. Toumberlin and her volunteers advocate in facilities throughout the county, including nursing homes, assisted-living settings, and long-term care units in hospitals. An ombudsman in her own right, Toumberlin also coordinates the work of ombudsman volunteers, providing recruitment and oversight.

Certified volunteer ombudsmen have legislative authority to visit facilities and meet with residents in confidence, identifying concerns.

"Dedicated volunteers work together to improve the lives of residents and honor them with understanding," said Toumberlin. "We strive to teach and model dignity and respect."

Additional information about the ombudsman program is available at www.kansasombudsmanksgov.com. To reach Toumberlin, call 913-236-9385 or e-mail Phylis.Toumberlin@da.ks.gov.